One of the best parts of living in Georgia is the vast opportunity for outdoor adventures. There is no reason to leave your dog out of the fun, either. Clairmont Animal Hospital is here to help you make sure that your dog water safety game is on point so that you and your pup can get out and enjoy.
Boating with Dogs
Dogs can have a blast on a boat, but it's important to start slow. Begin with short trips to help them acclimate before heading out on a longer adventure.
For safety, dogs should always wear a life vest while on board. Accidental falls can happen! It's also a good idea to have a secure leash or safety line, especially during critical moments like docking. A doggy boat ladder can be helpful for getting them back on board.
Sunny days on the water can take a toll on everyone, including your pup. Keep plenty of fresh water available, and offer it frequently to prevent heat exhaustion. Providing shade is also key, and don’t forget to protect sensitive areas like bald noses and ear tips with dog-friendly sunscreen.
Fishing with Dogs
As with many activities, knowing what hazards to look out for is half the battle. Understanding what challenges and dangers dog owners face when angling can help to make fishing with your dog a good experience for all.
Consider the dangers involved with:
- Navigating a boat around a pet
- Fish hooks
- Heat/dehydration
- Being on the water
- Temptations like stinky bait
Plan ahead for potential issues and have a strategy to handle them.
Before taking your dog fishing, ensure they’re comfortable around casting and bait to prevent them from diving in after them. Teaching “leave it” can be helpful, and fellow anglers will appreciate a quiet companion. Bring treats for distraction, or consider leaving an overly-excitable dog at home.
To prevent hook injuries, secure tackle, remove hooks from fish immediately, and check your dog’s position before casting. Never let your pet eat raw fish due to risks of illness and parasites. If fishing offshore, keep them leashed and out of the brush.
More Dog Water Safety Tips
With a little preparation and knowledge, the joys of the outdoors far outweigh any concerns. A bit of pet safety planning can make all the difference.
Be sure to:
- Bring a small pet first-aid kit on outdoor adventures
- Monitor the heat, and take steps to prevent heat exhaustion
- Bring along fresh, clean water, and offer it to your pet often
- Check to be sure that your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations like rabies and leptospirosis
- Provide good parasite prevention for things like ticks, fleas, heartworms, and intestinal parasites
- Do not allow your pet to drink or swim in standing water or areas with algae blooms
- Do not allow your pet to harass or chase wildlife
- Limit sharing people food with your pet to avoid gastrointestinal issues
If you have any questions about preparing your pet for outdoor water adventures, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re happy to help ensure you and your pet have a safe and enjoyable season. With a little planning, you can make the most of your time outdoors together!